Misery Loves Company

‘Misery loves company’.

Have you heard that one? Maybe you’ve been it or seen it without fully understanding the concept. I’ll do my best to explain...

Have you noticed when you’re feeling down and out, it feels good to be accompanied in that state? To have others empathically feel your pain; to see, acknowledge and validate you, because of your pain (my hand is raised in ownership).

Or maybe you’ve observed it in others? Like when a person ‘can’t seem to catch a break’. It’s not uncommon that a ‘poor me’ energy activates and they proceed to talk about and re-live what’s not right for them, non-stop. Their energy feels heavy; their narrative sounds victimised.

Whether it’s you or another, it’s important to understand that misery loves company, so be mindful if you’re over indulging (as the victim or the supporter).

When misery becomes familiar and repetitive, that’s a good time to pay attention the story you’re running (and your choices that keep you in it).

Same goes if you’re accompanying someone while they are stuck in the mud. It will get to a stage where you are no longer supporting their process, but instead, enabling their sense of disempowerment.

At some point, a hug needs to turn into a loving kick up the butt. Sit with them in the mud, but not for too long. Feel when it’s time to stand up, and offer them the suggestion to do the same.

If they’re ready and willing, they will. Encourage them by moving forward yourself.

And finally - ‘Misery Loves Company’ & ‘Like attracts Like’ - therefore it’s wise to pick your tribe carefully or you may find yourself stuck in the mud with miserable people, and no one to call you out.